Get 15% OFF with code GROWNOW15
My Account Order Lookup Cannabis Guides Beginner Seeds Intermediate Seeds Master Seeds

Mandarine – Strain Information

  • Home
  • Mandarine – Strain Information

Mandarine is a hybrid cannabis strain celebrated for its distinct citrus aroma, vibrant terpene profile, and balanced effects. It is a crossbreed that combines the best qualities of its parent strains to offer both recreational users and medical patients a versatile experience. Known for its refreshing mandarin orange flavor, this strain has gained popularity among connoisseurs and casual users alike.

Mandarine’s genetic lineage typically includes Tangie or Clementine as one of its primary parent strains, both of which are renowned for their citrus-forward terpene profiles. The hybridization results in a balanced strain, often leaning slightly towards sativa dominance, but it may vary depending on the specific breeder’s formulation.

Genetic Lineage

Mandarine is often derived from:

  • Tangie: A sativa-dominant strain known for its sweet, citrusy flavors and uplifting effects.
  • Clementine: Another citrus-heavy sativa strain, prized for its invigorating and euphoric effects.

Depending on the breeder, additional strains may be involved to refine the terpene profile or modify the THC and CBD levels. The average THC content of Mandarine ranges from 18% to 24%, while CBD levels are typically low, often below 1%.

Appearance

Mandarine buds are visually stunning, characterized by:

  • Color: Bright green buds with hints of deep orange and purple hues.
  • Trichomes: A thick coating of crystalline trichomes, giving the buds a frosted appearance.
  • Structure: Dense and medium-sized buds with a slightly conical shape.
  • Pistils: Vibrant orange pistils that resemble the color of ripe mandarin oranges.
Aroma and Flavor Profile

The terpene profile of Mandarine is what sets it apart. Dominant terpenes include:

  1. Limonene: Responsible for the zesty, citrus aroma and mood-boosting effects.
  2. Myrcene: Adds a subtle earthiness and contributes to the strain’s relaxing properties.
  3. Beta-Caryophyllene: Offers a hint of spiciness and interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system for potential anti-inflammatory benefits.

Aroma:

  • Strong notes of mandarin oranges, citrus zest, and tropical fruits.
  • Underlying hints of earthiness and pine.

Flavor:

  • Sweet, tangy orange with a smooth, fruity aftertaste.
  • Slight herbal and spicy undertones.
Effects

Mandarine’s effects are a harmonious blend of cerebral stimulation and physical relaxation, making it suitable for various occasions. Users typically describe the high as uplifting, euphoric, and calming.

Onset:

  • Rapid onset, with effects noticeable within minutes of consumption.
  • An initial cerebral rush that boosts mood and enhances focus.

Primary Effects:

  1. Euphoria: Gives one a feeling of contentment and health.
  2. Relaxation: Relieves physical tension without causing heavy sedation.
  3. Creativity: Promotes creative expression and original thought.
  4. Energy Boost: Ideal for daytime use due to its mildly stimulating properties.

Duration:

  • Effects last approximately 2 to 4 hours, depending on dosage and individual tolerance.
Medical Uses

Mandarine’s balanced effects make it a valuable option for addressing various medical conditions. Here are some specific therapeutic benefits:

mandarine med
  1. Stress and Anxiety Relief:
    • The uplifting effects of limonene and the calming properties of myrcene help reduce stress and anxiety.
    • Ideal for patients seeking mental clarity without sedation.
  2. Depression:
    • Its euphoric effects can improve mood and combat symptoms of depression.
    • The strain’s energizing qualities help overcome lethargy.
  3. Pain Management:
    • The beta-caryophyllene terpene interacts with CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system to provide anti-inflammatory benefits.
    • Effective for mild to moderate pain, such as headaches, muscle tension, and joint discomfort.
  4. Fatigue:
    • The mild stimulating effects make it suitable for individuals struggling with chronic fatigue.
  5. Appetite Stimulation:
    • Mandarine can increase appetite, making it beneficial for patients undergoing chemotherapy or those with eating disorders.
  6. Migraines:
    • Its combination of pain relief and relaxation can alleviate migraine symptoms.
  7. Focus and ADHD:
    • The strain’s cerebral effects can enhance focus and concentration, potentially aiding individuals with ADHD.
Recreational Uses

Mandarine is equally popular among recreational users due to its enjoyable effects and pleasant flavor. Common recreational uses include:

  1. Social Settings:
    • The uplifting and euphoric effects make it a great choice for social gatherings.
    • Encourages conversation and laughter without causing paranoia.
  2. Creative Activities:
    • Perfect for activities that require creative thinking, such as art, music, or writing.
    • Enhances sensory perception, making it ideal for enjoying movies, music, or nature.
  3. Outdoor Adventures:
    • The mild energy boost is well-suited for hiking, gardening, or other outdoor activities.
  4. Relaxation:
    • Provides physical relaxation without heavy sedation, making it suitable for unwinding after work or during leisure time.
  5. Morning or Midday Use:
    • Unlike heavier indica strains, Mandarine’s balanced effects won’t interfere with productivity.
Scientific Information

Mandarine’s effects and therapeutic potential are primarily attributed to its chemical composition, including cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids.

Cannabinoids:

  1. THC:
    • Average levels range from 18% to 24%, providing potent psychoactive effects.
    • THC binds to CB1 receptors in the brain, contributing to euphoria, creativity, and pain relief.
  2. CBD:
    • Low CBD levels (<1%) mean the strain is less likely to counteract THC-induced psychoactivity but may still offer mild therapeutic benefits.
  3. CBG:
    • Trace amounts of cannabigerol (CBG) may contribute to anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects.

Terpenes: The interplay of terpenes in Mandarine contributes significantly to its effects:

  1. Limonene:
    • Linked to stress reduction and mood enhancement.
    • May have anti-anxiety and anti-depressant properties.
  2. Myrcene:
    • Enhances relaxation and may amplify the effects of THC (the entourage effect).
    • Has sedative and anti-inflammatory properties.
  3. Beta-Caryophyllene:
    • A unique terpene that acts as a cannabinoid, binding to CB2 receptors.
    • Provides anti-inflammatory and analgesic benefits.

Flavonoids:

  • Flavonoids like quercetin and kaempferol contribute to the strain’s antioxidant properties and may have additional health benefits.
Methods of Ingestion

Mandarine cannabis can be consumed through several methods, each affecting how the cannabinoids and terpenes interact with the body. These methods influence the onset time, duration, and overall experience.

1. Smoking
  • Mechanism: Combustion of Mandarine flowers releases cannabinoids (like THC) and terpenes, which are absorbed through the lungs into the bloodstream.
  • Onset: Immediate to 5 minutes after inhalation.
  • Duration: Effects last 1.5 to 3 hours depending on dosage.
  • Scientific Notes:
    • Smoking rapidly delivers THC and other cannabinoids into the bloodstream via alveoli in the lungs, ensuring fast psychoactive effects.
    • However, combustion can degrade some terpenes (like limonene) and introduce harmful byproducts.
2. Vaporization (Vaping)
  • Mechanism: Heating Mandarine buds or concentrates below the combustion point (~200°C/392°F) allows for cannabinoid and terpene vaporization without burning plant material.
  • Onset: Immediate to 5 minutes after inhalation.
  • Duration: Effects last 1.5 to 3 hours.
  • Scientific Notes:
    • Vaporization preserves terpenes, resulting in a more robust flavor profile and potentially enhanced entourage effects.
    • Reduces exposure to harmful combustion byproducts (e.g., tar and carbon monoxide).
    • Optimal vaporization temperature for Mandarine: 180–200°C (356–392°F) to preserve limonene and other terpenes.
3. Edibles
  • Mechanism: Mandarine’s cannabinoids are infused into food or drink. THC is metabolized by the liver into 11-hydroxy-THC, a more potent psychoactive compound.
  • Onset: Slow, ranging from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on metabolism and whether it is consumed with food.
  • Duration: Effects can last 6 to 8 hours, with a peak at 2–4 hours.
  • Scientific Notes:
    • Edibles result in a delayed but longer-lasting high due to the conversion of THC into 11-hydroxy-THC.
    • The bioavailability of cannabinoids is lower (~4–12%) compared to smoking or vaping, so dosing must be carefully calculated.
4. Tinctures (Sublingual Administration)
  • Mechanism: A liquid extract of Mandarine cannabinoids is placed under the tongue, allowing absorption through the sublingual glands.
  • Onset: Rapid, within 15–30 minutes.
  • Duration: Effects last 4 to 6 hours.
  • Scientific Notes:
    • Sublingual ingestion bypasses first-pass liver metabolism, leading to faster effects compared to edibles.
    • Provides precise and controlled dosing.
5. Topicals
  • Mechanism: Cannabinoids are infused into creams, balms, or transdermal patches and applied to the skin for localized relief.
  • Onset: Gradual, within 15–30 minutes.
  • Duration: Effects last 2 to 4 hours for localized relief; transdermal patches can last up to 12 hours.
  • Scientific Notes:
    • Topicals with Mandarine are non-psychoactive as cannabinoids do not typically penetrate the bloodstream unless delivered through transdermal patches.
    • Effective for inflammation, joint pain, and localized muscle tension.
6. Dabbing (Concentrates)
  • Mechanism: Involves heating concentrated forms of Mandarine (e.g., shatter, wax, or resin) and inhaling the vapor.
  • Onset: Immediate to 1–2 minutes.
  • Duration: Effects last 1–3 hours.
  • Scientific Notes:
    • Dabbing delivers high doses of THC and terpenes quickly, making it potent and fast-acting.
    • Requires temperature control (ideal range: 230–260°C/446–500°F) to avoid degrading terpenes and cannabinoids.
7. Capsules
  • Mechanism: Encapsulated cannabinoids are ingested like a pill, similar to edibles but with slower digestion.
  • Onset: Slow, 1 to 2 hours.
  • Duration: Effects last 6 to 8 hours.
  • Scientific Notes:
    • Provides a discreet and consistent dosing method.
    • Similar to edibles, cannabinoids undergo first-pass metabolism.
Onset and Duration of Effects

The onset and duration of Mandarine’s effects depend on the chosen ingestion method, the body’s metabolism, and the formulation of the product.

1. Rapid Onset Methods
  • Smoking, Vaping, and Dabbing:
    • These methods allow cannabinoids to bypass digestion and first-pass liver metabolism by entering the bloodstream directly through the lungs.
    • Users feel the effects almost instantly, making these methods ideal for acute symptom relief (e.g., stress, anxiety, or nausea).
2. Delayed Onset Methods
  • Edibles, Capsules, and Beverages:
    • Cannabinoids are processed through the digestive system and metabolized in the liver before entering the bloodstream, resulting in a slower onset but more intense and prolonged effects.
    • Best suited for sustained relief from chronic conditions like pain or insomnia.
3. Moderate Onset Methods
  • Tinctures (Sublingual) and Topicals:
    • Sublingual ingestion offers a middle ground between rapid and delayed methods, with moderate onset times and sustained effects.
    • Topicals provide localized relief without significant systemic effects unless transdermal patches are used.
Factors Affecting Onset and Duration
  1. Metabolism:
    • Faster metabolism leads to quicker onset and shorter duration, while slower metabolism extends both.
  2. Tolerance:
    • Regular cannabis users may experience reduced effects due to desensitization of CB1 receptors in the endocannabinoid system.
  3. Dose:
    • Higher doses result in more prolonged effects, especially with edibles or capsules.
  4. Presence of Food:
    • Consuming edibles or capsules on an empty stomach accelerates absorption, while food delays onset.
  5. Cannabinoid Profile:
    • High-THC strains like Mandarine have more pronounced psychoactive effects, while the absence of CBD reduces moderation of THC’s intensity.
  6. Terpenes:
    • Terpenes like limonene and myrcene influence how cannabinoids are absorbed and interact with receptors, contributing to the overall onset and duration of effects.
Growing Information

Mandarine is a moderately challenging strain to grow, suitable for both indoor and outdoor cultivation. Key growing details include:

mandarine cultivation
1. Understanding the Genetic Profile
  • Sativa-Dominant Characteristics: Mandarine typically exhibits traits of sativa-dominant hybrids, meaning it thrives in slightly warmer climates and grows taller with elongated leaves.
  • Terpene Production: High levels of limonene require careful management of light intensity and temperature to maximize citrus terpenes.
  • THC Optimization: Achieving the strain’s potential THC range (18–24%) requires precise nutrient management and environmental controls.
2. Environmental Requirements

Mandarine performs well under specific environmental conditions that mirror a Mediterranean climate:

  • Temperature:
    • Optimal range: 21–27°C (70–80°F).
    • Avoid temperature fluctuations of more than 10°C between day and night.
  • Humidity Levels:
    • Vegetative stage: 50–70% RH (relative humidity).
    • Flowering stage: Gradually reduce to 40–50% RH to prevent mold and mildew.
  • Lighting Conditions:
    • Indoors: Full-spectrum LED grow lights or high-pressure sodium (HPS) lights are recommended. Maintain a PAR (Photosynthetically Active Radiation) range of 700–900 µmol/m²/s during flowering.
    • Outdoors: Requires at least 8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
  • CO2 Supplementation:
    • Using supplemental CO2 at levels around 1200–1500 ppm can significantly boost growth and yield, especially in controlled indoor environments.
3. Soil and Nutrients
mandarine soil
  • Soil Type:
    • Use well-draining, nutrient-rich soil with a pH level of 6.0–6.5.
    • Incorporate organic amendments like compost, worm castings, and bat guano for optimal root health.
  • Hydroponics:
    • Mandarine responds well to hydroponic setups, particularly Deep Water Culture (DWC) or Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) systems. These systems enhance nutrient absorption and growth rates.
  • Nutrient Needs:
    • Vegetative Stage: High nitrogen (N) levels, moderate phosphorus (P), and potassium (K).
    • Flowering Stage: Shift to higher phosphorus and potassium levels while reducing nitrogen to support bud development.
    • Micronutrients: Ensure adequate levels of calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and sulfur (S).
  • EC (Electrical Conductivity):
    • Maintain EC levels between 1.2–2.0 mS/cm depending on the growth stage.
4. Advanced Cultivation Techniques

To maximize Mandarine’s yield, potency, and terpene profile, growers can apply the following advanced methods:

  1. Low-Stress Training (LST):
    • Bend and tie branches to expose lower nodes to light, encouraging even canopy growth and higher bud production.
  2. Screen of Green (ScrOG):
    • Use a net to train branches horizontally, optimizing light penetration and increasing the yield per square meter.
  3. Defoliation:
    • Remove excess fan leaves during the flowering stage to improve airflow and light distribution.
  4. Flushing:
    • Perform a flush two weeks before harvest using pH-balanced water to remove nutrient residues, enhancing the strain’s flavor.
  5. Harvest Timing:
    • Use a microscope or magnifying lens to observe trichomes:
      • For maximum THC: Harvest when trichomes turn milky white with a few amber ones.
      • For a more relaxing effect: Wait until most trichomes are amber.
5. Pest and Disease Management

Mandarine is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but proactive measures are essential to maintain plant health:

  • Common Pests:
    • Spider mites, aphids, whiteflies, and fungus gnats can infest Mandarine plants. Use natural predators like ladybugs or neem oil sprays for control.
  • Fungal Diseases:
    • Powdery mildew and bud rot can occur in high-humidity conditions. Prevent with proper ventilation, silica supplements, and sulfur treatments.
  • Biological Control:
    • Introduce beneficial fungi and bacteria (e.g., mycorrhizae and Bacillus subtilis) to the soil to boost plant immunity and nutrient uptake.
6. Enhancing Terpene Profiles

To maximize Mandarine’s signature citrus aroma and flavor, focus on these scientific methods:

  • Temperature Management:
    • Terpenes like limonene are volatile and degrade at high temperatures. Maintain temperatures below 26°C (79°F) during flowering.
  • UV Light Exposure:
    • Introducing UVB light during the late flowering stage can boost terpene and cannabinoid production by triggering the plant’s defense mechanisms.
  • Nutrient Adjustments:
    • Supplement with sulfur during the flowering stage to enhance terpene synthesis.
7. Yield and Harvesting
  • Indoor Yield: Approximately 400–500 grams per square meter under optimal conditions.
  • Outdoor Yield: 500–600 grams per plant, depending on sunlight and climate.
  • Drying and Curing:
    • Dry buds in a dark room with temperatures of 18–22°C (64–72°F) and 50–60% RH for 7–10 days.
    • Cure in airtight glass jars, opening daily to release moisture for 2–4 weeks.
Potential Side Effects

Like all cannabis strains, Mandarine may cause side effects, especially when consumed in high doses. Common side effects include:

  1. Dry Mouth:
    • Staying hydrated can help alleviate this.
  2. Dry Eyes:
    • Eye drops can provide relief.
  3. Dizziness:
    • More likely in novice users or those with low tolerance.
  4. Paranoia:
    • Rare, but possible in individuals sensitive to THC.
  5. Anxiety:
    • Can occur if consumed in excessive amounts; starting with a low dose is recommended.
Conclusion

Mandarine is a well-rounded cannabis strain that combines flavorful citrus notes with balanced effects. Its versatility makes it a favorite among both recreational users seeking a pleasant, uplifting high and medical patients looking for relief from various conditions. With its rich terpene profile, moderate grow difficulty, and wide range of applications, Mandarine is a standout strain in the ever-expanding cannabis landscape.

For a complete directory of cultivars, visit our Cannabis Strain Reviews.